"Moth Madness" At Penn State's Great Insect Fair

What's the difference between a moth and a butterfly? Why do they fly by night? Find out the answers to these and all your questions about moths and other six-legged critters at Penn State's 16th annual Great Insect Fair, being held on Oct. 3.

Sponsored by the College of Agricultural Sciences' entomology department, the fair takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Snider Agricultural Arena, at the corner of Park Avenue and Fox Hollow Road (across from Beaver Stadium) on the University Park campus.

With a theme of "Moth Madness," this year's fair will feature fun games such as "Mothra vs. Batman," a moth-mask craft activity, displays and a moth and butterfly tent, according to Steve Jacobs, senior extension associate in entomology and fair coordinator. "Many people don't realize moths play an important role in pollinating plants," he said. "In fact, some flowers that bloom only at night depend on night-flying moths for pollination."

Other fun and interactive events are being planned to appeal to people of all ages:

The BugMobile! Learn about insects and integrated pest management while chatting with the one and only talking car.

Admission to the Great Insect Fair is free, although donations will be accepted to help defray costs. Free parking is available at the Snider Agricultural Arena and across Park Avenue behind the Centre County/Penn State Visitor Center. For more information, call the entomology department at 814-865-1895 or visit http://agsci.psu.edu/insectfair.